New standard packaging norms for FMCG cos from Nov: Govt

Amid growing cases of unfair trade practices, the government today said it has made it mandatory for FMCG companies to pack and sell specific products like biscuits and milk powder in standard sizes only with effect from November 1.

Following complaints regarding unfair reduction in the quantity of packaged products from some consumer organisation, the government has amended the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011.

"It has been observed that some manufacturers in the country are reducing quantity of packaged products by small fractions without making a change in the price of the product. The government after due examination of the issue amended the Legal Metrology Rules, 2011," Food and Consumer Affairs Minister K V Thomas said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

As per the amendment, all manufacturers of 19 commodities mentioned in second schedule of the said Rule will have to mandatorily pack items in standard sizes only, he said, adding that any unfair reduction of quantity will not be permitted.  This order will be implemented from November 1, 2012, he said.

Baby food, weaning food, biscuits, bread, butter, coffee, tea, cereals, pulses, milk powder, salt, edible oils, rice and wheat flour, aerated soft drink, drinking water, cement and paints are among other products that manufacturers are required to pack and sell in standard sizes, he added.